The World - Wesley Willows

The
World
SUMMER 2015
of
A FA I T H B A S E D C O M M U N I T Y
AN EXTRAORDINARY SENIOR LIVING EXPERIENCE
Choral Tribute to
WWII Veterans
A
t Wesley Willows, we are blessed
to have many Veterans living on
our campus. The Life Enrichment
Department enjoys creating
opportunities that bring these veterans
together and recognizes them for their
time and dedication to our country.
Some of these programs include:
Veterans’ Breakfasts, Northern IL
Hospice “No Greater Love”, VietNow
Christmas Celebration, Christmas gifts
from the American Legion, Veterans’
Day Tribute and many more. We have
been grateful for the assistance of Wesley
Willows Hospitality Associate Barney
Spencer as a Veteran volunteer bringing
these programs to the campus.
This summer we had two new and
exciting programs. On June 30, 2015
the Wesley Willows Life Enrichment
Department joined forces with resident
Jim Baldwin, in creation of a special
program to remember and honor
the veterans who live on our campus
and those who have gone before us.
Several residents and staff were also
able to contribute to the production
of this event. Wesley Willows’ Richard
Stiltner, from the Transportation
Department, led a choir consisting of
residents and staff. The choir performed
some of our favorite patriotic songs
accompanied by both guitar and piano.
Those in attendance could be seen
singing along with the choir. Resident
Sally Medernach, a talented writer,
shared a few poetry pieces she had
written following her trip
to Springfield, IL. Another
highlight of this event was the
special tribute to our World
War II veterans, in honor
of the 70th anniversary of
the end of war. Resident Jim
Baldwin had interviewed two
residents, Andy Andreasen
and Bob Persinger about their
experiences as young men
in World War II and their
Alberto Lau (L) and Robert Schneider (R) - Documentary
reflections looking back on
Producers, with Wesley Willows Resident Bob Persinger.
that time in their lives 70
years later. Over 150 were in
The second documentary, I Had to
attendance including, Veterans
Clean My Heart, told the story of Lou
from all lifestyles on campus, their
Dunst who spent his teenage years in
families, and friends.
unspeakable conditions surviving forced
The second event was a documentary
labor and concentration camps, yet
screening. Alberto Lau and Robert
went on to live a productive and happy
Schneider from California created two
documentaries featuring Wesley Willows life. Through exclusive interviews with
Lou, his wife, Bob Persinger, Rabbi Ben
resident, Bob Persinger. Alberto and
Kamin, and others, this documentary
Robert came to Wesley Willows to share
traced his life from childhood to concentheir work, experience, and the inspiration of telling these two powerful stories. tration camps to his life in the US.
The Wesley Willows’ Life Enrichment
The first documentary, Think of Only
department continues to create and
Today, traced an arc of history and tells
bring many activities to campus for our
the story of two different men-one
Veterans in efforts to show support,
Dutch, one American-growing up on
create a sense of community, and most
different continents. In their voices,
importantly honor them for their
Max Garcia and Bob Persinger take us
through their childhood and through the service. If you would like to get involved
or have any ideas for programs to bring
Second World War as they experienced
to the Wesley Willows campus, contact
it: Max, surviving concentration
the Life Enrichment Department –
camps; Bob, surviving combat as a tank
commander in the US Army.
815-316-1516.
resident’s Message
P
n Peterson Meadows Behind the Scenes
n Conversations with
our Chaplain
n
iscal Responsibility
F
n Community Outreach
n 43rd Annual Benefit
n Where is Glen Now?
n
Tuition Reimbursement
Opportunities
n Donations
n Phase III
n
LEADERSHIP
Bill Pratt, President & CEO
T
he past ninety days have been filled
with so many events and updates it is
hard to believe it could all happen in such a
short period of time. This issue is filled with
stories that remind me of why I love working at
Wesley Willows so very much. On July 1, I began
my 17th year at Wesley Willows. The past 16 years have
been incredible and it seems as if my mantra when I arrived,
Change!, Change!, Change! still follows me around – it is
exciting!
day to honor all the Veterans (over 90) on campus. One
other event raising awareness of Veterans is the result of two
documentaries about Bob Persinger, one of our residents
from World War II. Speaking of celebrations, the wrap up of
another annual benefit at the Starlight Theater is noteworthy
as well.
Have you ever noticed how you may have a few negative
thoughts and then an old favorite song comes on the radio and
your whole mood changes? Read the Chaplains corner and
learn more about the healing power of music in your life and
of those who suffer from various medical conditions.
As you take time to read and look through this issue of The
World you will learn about community outreach or community
Finally, read about our staff and how they improve their
accountability that occurs here at Wesley Willows and on the
abilities to provide better services and programs as a result
Peterson Meadows campus. You will read about development
of educational and training sessions. Even better learn of a
on both campuses. Eighteen months ago when we acquired
new program coming in September or October of this year
Peterson Meadows who would have thought new construction
to make a positive contribution on the campus and in the
could occur so soon. While you read this
greater Rockford senior living community.
issue of The World new residents will be
Additionally we are pleased to announce
moving into Willows Suites III after it opens
This issue is filled
a program to enhance our tuition
in August. These projects happened because
reimbursement for our staff, particularly for
with stories that
of aggressive marketing and honoring one of
those pursuing licensure as an LPN or RN
our values: Fiscal Responsibility. You will find
or advancing their RN education. This is a
remind me of why
a detailed article about it in this issue.
great issue to just catch up with all the news
Look to read of staffing changes at Peterson
around The World at Peterson Meadows and
I love working at
Meadows. Another interesting article is
Wesley Willows.
Wesley Willows so
the involvement of our residents creating
Till next time,
programs to celebrate our Veterans. One
very much.
Bill Pratt
is quite a story with a lot of moving parts
President/CEO
(people) all joining to make a truly special
Peterson Meadows Behind the Scenes:
Opportunities, Growth, and Change
W
hile the residents at Peterson
Meadows continue to enjoy a
carefree lifestyle with access to many
different programs, services, and
amenities; behind-the-scenes staff has
been busy on a multitude of levels. The
past few months have offered many
different opportunities for development,
growth, and change to our campus.
For the first time since 2007, Peterson
Meadows broke ground for the new
construction of a single family home.
As we look to complete the building of
20 more units which would complete
Phase III of the Peterson Meadows
campus, we have received 3 deposits
2
for the construction of additional new
units. Steve Zentz is the builder of these
new units at Peterson Meadows. Steve
has long been a partner with Wesley
Willows, building in excess of 80 new
duplexes on the campus since 2002.
Bringing Steve and his expertise to
the Peterson Meadows campus is just
one more growth opportunity for our
campus near the I-90 corridor. Growth
and Development doesn’t just include
buildings – it also includes staff. We
have had an opportunity to hire three
new housekeeping staff, of all whom
have done a great job at establishing
meaningful relationships with the
residents. Another strategic change is
the promotion of Melissa Wright from
Senior Living Counselor to Director. In
this role she will continue to handle the
Sales and Marketing efforts at Peterson
Meadows along with managing the
day to day operations. Brittany Crist
also joined the Peterson Meadows
team after working for 2 years as the
Administrative Assistant to the Campus
Administrator on the Wesley Willows
campus. Brittany serves as the Resident
Services Manager offering resources
for residents and families through our
Health and Wellness and Here to Help
Home Care programs. To round out
the resident services role, she will also
oversee our Guest Services Department.
Healing Power of Music
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
Chaplain MaryLou Eubanks
M
usic is often called the universal language. It speaks to
an inner part of our being that needs no words. Music
appreciated with others can foster an unspoken sense of
community with the other people listening. If you attended
Mary Poppins or the movie Glen Campbell, I’ll Be Me, you
may have noticed that in a crowd of strangers, it didn’t take
long for toes to start tapping or heads to start bobbing with
the beat. In the scientific community, there’s debate as to
what parts of our anatomy are most affected by music, but
the impact of music is clearly documented. Musical studies
show, with Cardiac catheterization patients’, their blood
pressure stays more steady when music plays softly in headsets
as the procedure is taking place. Also, with Multiple Sclerosis
patients, it is found that music helps reduce muscle spasms.
Producing music has positive results as well. A Swedish study
has shown that the heartbeats of persons singing choral music
become synchronized as they lift their voices together. The
more structured and soothing the music, the more their hearts
beat at the same rate. Pete Seeger understood instinctively
that lyrics expressing unity and mutual support could have
a positive social impact. Research indicates that exposure to
prosocial lyrics contributes to helping behavior and feelings of
empathy.
One of my most moving experiences as a chaplain was
witnessing the power of music while working with a stroke
patient who could not speak. Often stroke victims struggling
with speech will be able to recite prayers or Bible verses that
they have known for years, but this woman could not do
so. However, as I sang Amazing Grace, she began singing
along. Her therapists seized on
this information and started music
intonation therapy, encouraging her
to sing her thoughts. This approach
does not work with everyone, but it did
with her. Music helps the brain develop new
pathways around damaged areas. Alzheimer’s patients who are
withdrawn will often start to sing, clap their hands and tap
their feet when exposed to familiar music from their youth.
The positive effect of music is not new to our post-modern
era: When Saul’s soul was troubled, young David’s singing
would soothe him (1 Samuel 16:23). At Wesley Willows,
there are many occasions to experience music collectively.
Outings to the symphony and other concerts appear on the
calendar regularly. Members of the Bards raise their voices
to mark special occasions such as; Thanksgiving, Christmas
and Easter. We sing hymns at all of our chapel services. The
Spiritual Resource Center in Swingley Lounge has sheet
music and a piano if you want to tickle the ivories, as well
as cassettes, CDs and DVDs that you can listen to or watch,
alone or with others.
I credit our Creator for providing us with this “tool” of music
that can help us fully enjoy the gift of life. Whether you share
that understanding of the universe or not, I hope you allow
the power of music into your life. It will be richer for it—and
your health may benefit, too!
Blessings!
Chaplain MaryLou
of the Wesley Willows family for over
seven years and we look forward to the
new ideas and menus he will bring to
dining on the campus.
President & CEO, Bill Pratt stands in front of the newly
broken ground at Peterson Meadows.
As change happens, it sometimes
means individuals move on. Recently,
we celebrated with Christine Bailey
her 22 years of service in the Dining
department. Christine provided great
support to our residents and staff
through her caring attitude and love of
cooking. Residents and staff joined in
the celebration as Christine ended her
time at Peterson Meadows to pursue a
new chapter in her life. We wish her the
best. As the Dining Services Manager
position is key to the happiness of
Peterson Meadows residents, we knew
replacing Christine would require just
the right person. We are happy and
excited to welcome Joseph Paddock to
this important role. Joey has been a part
We have also taken advantage of special
opportunities to reacquaint the area with
Peterson Meadows as a Wesley Willows
community. One of those has been to
participate as the co-sponsor of Rockford
Park District’s Sounds of Summer Music
in the Park concert series at Sinnissippi
Park and Music Shell. It was a great
experience attending the Patriotic
Concert with residents, family, and
friends as the Rockford Concert Band
paid tribute to our Nation’s heroes.
Looking ahead to the next year, there
are no signs of slowing down at Peterson
Meadows. We will continue to have new
opportunities for staff and residents,
campus growth, and embracing change.
3
PETERSON MEADOWS
Residents Take Part in Community Outreach
O
f the many great qualities Peterson Meadows residents
exhibit, one that really stands out is their focus on
community outreach and special projects that they are involved
in. With the new school year quickly approaching, residents
have been persevering with the collection of school supplies
for the Blackhawk Buddy House in Rockford. The Buddy
House is a safe place where children and families go to get
inspired and break through negative cycles while promoting
change for members within the community,
particularly the youth.
According to an article printed in Metro
Kids magazine, it was estimated that the
average family will spend $101 on school
supplies, including backpack and calculator
costs, for the 2015-2016 school year. Last
year during 2014, classroom school supply
lists contained an average of 18 items each.
So far, with the donations from Peterson
Meadows residents over 400 different
items will be given to the Buddy House for
distribution to local Rockford students.
The community outreach efforts at Peterson
Fiscal Responsibility
O
ur Board of Trustees approved our vision and Values
statements last July. With the close of our recently
completed fiscal year it seemed appropriate to share our
Value of Fiscal Responsibility and the approach that is used
to assure this happens year after year. The Value states: Fiscal
Responsibility for Wesley Willows, residents, and employees.
This is a relatively short statement, but in fact, it carries a
lot of weight and directs decisions by Wesley Willows every
day. Wesley Willows has experienced great success in this area
for many years. It is achievable due to a partnership between
our Board of Trustees and the Management Team and our
Employees.
This value of Fiscal Responsibility realistically boils down to
three key factors: revenues, expenses, and our balance sheet.
Each year during a four month timeframe, our budget for the
upcoming year is established through the hard work of our
department directors and our managers. Mark Ticknor leads
this effort and drives the entire process. His reminder to all
of those involved begins with a comment that says, “here are
some guidelines to begin with, but remember as a manager/
director you have a responsibility to make sure that you budget
for new programs and services and that your department will
meet the needs of our residents while improving the current
programs and services.
4
Meadows are ongoing throughout the year and consist of
several different projects. In May, residents participated in the
Peanut Butter Rally for the Rock River Valley Food Pantry.
Over $430 was raised for the purchase of peanut butter ($20
will buy twelve 18 oz. jars). The residents also delivered 16
pounds of peanut butter to the food pantry.
Other philanthropic projects completed over the past year
include; special collections for MELD (Mothers & Fathers
Establish Life’s Direction), an
ongoing collection for the Rock
River Valley Food Pantry, and a
fall collection of hats, mittens,
and scarves which will be donated
locally. Peterson Meadows
residents and staff truly enjoy
the variety of opportunities that
help make a difference in our
community and are grateful for
the residents who help coordinate
the donation efforts.
Peterson Meadows
resident, Barb Cummings,
helps promote and distribute
donations collected
throughout the year.
Once all of the discussions and calculations are completed
the Wesley Willows Board of Trustees Finance Committee
completes their review, analysis, and recommendations for
final approval before our full Board of Trustees approves the
budget in May each year.
The budget is not a financial statement, but rather a plan for
our financial activities each year. NO one can predict exactly
what the year will bring as it is very dependent on our census
in each lifestyle on the campus. Whether it is independent
living, assisted living, personal care, the rehabilitation unit,
Kirk’s Place memory center, or our general long term nursing
unit; one thing is sure, we have a direction which we expect to
follow. As changes occur the directors and managers need to
be certain they are accounting for any variances that happen. It
may mean increasing or decreasing staffing based on the needs
of residents on different areas of the campus. It may mean
delaying a capital project to be certain whatever has changed
on our scenery still makes sense in the whole scheme of things.
This important value is part of our strategic planning and goal
setting for each department. There is a discipline to making
the finances work with effective results. For capital expansion
programs our Fiscal Responsibility plays an important
role. A tremendous amount of time goes into planning any
new construction or major renovation. The development
ANNUAL BENEFIT
Wesley Willows 43rd Annual Benefit
for the Good Samaritan Fund
I
t was “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!”
Wouldn’t it be incredible if we, just like the
“practically perfect” Mary Poppins, could gracefully
land in someone’s troubled life and make it better?
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our very presence
brought hope and relief to someone’s most distressing
problem?
If you attended and supported our Benefit for the
Good Samaritan Fund, you are a Mary Poppins! For
each seat filled, for every gift donated, and for every
business partner involved, a life is changed thanks to
your awe-inspiring support. Just like Mary Poppins,
you erase worries
and concerns from
the minds of others.
Our residents who
have outlived their
financial resources truly
appreciate your gifts
that provide ongoing
care from attentive staff
in a warm, inviting
home filled with
laughter and kindness.
It’s better than a
Alpine Bank volunteer Carol Moll
spoonful of sugar!
prepares for the benefit.
Mary Poppins was the
perfect musical for bringing our Residents and Rockford
community members together. It was wonderful to have
so many children in the audience. Mike Webb and the
entire Starlight Cast deserve high praise for another superb
performance. The perfect July afternoon was topped off
Mary Poppins actors stroll the
Starlight Gardens.
The kids meet Curly.
with DQ Dilly® Bars and Wesley
Willows cookies. A gift from
Meijer provided lots of cold
refreshing water and the Starlight
volunteers served great mounds of
fresh popcorn at intermission.
The Alpine Bank Coloring Contest boasted 77 entries from
kids and seniors – the most ever! Thank you Alpine Bank for
displaying the promotional Contest Posters at 12 locations
around town. We had a multitude of volunteers made up of
Board Members, Staff, and Community Members. We kept
them busy parking cars, handing out Goodie Bags, guiding
attendees to seats, hanging banners, distributing tickets – the
list goes on and on! A huge thank you to all the volunteers!
We extend a mighty thank you to our sponsors and
underwriters, supporters of the event and our partners
throughout the year. Sponsors: Wells Fargo, Morrison
Community Living, Scandroli Construction, Alpine Trust &
Investment Group, Puckett’s Flooring, Rockford
Health System, and Williams-Manny Insurance
of a proforma is a significant part of the planning. Census changes
Group. Underwriters: DQ Grill & Chill,
or development is considered on a very conservative basis. After the
Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, LTD,
proforma is available, many eyes review the assumptions and many “what
Focus Financial Advisors, Inc., Guler Appliance
ifs” are posed to test the reality and probability of success.
Co., Matt Humpal at RE/MAX Property Source,
Maney’s Lawnscape, Inc., Mechanical, Inc.,
Each time we do an expansion project or large renovation project, Wesley
Medline, Meridian, Rockford Bank & Trust, and
Willows is significantly invested. We pay for all renovations with cash
Williams McCarthy LLP.
and if we borrow for an expansion we generally limit our borrowing to
less than 80% of the project costs. This assists in maintaining a balance
The perfect moment of the event was hearing
between our debt and investments with an ability to deal with any hiccup
1,050 voices call back to us on stage that it
that may occur.
was a Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious kind
of day and to later announce that together we
Fiscal year 2015 which ended in June was another example of Wesley
raised $75,500 for the Good Samaritan Fund!
Willows living out its Value of Fiscal Responsibility for Wesley Willows,
residents, and employees as we had another strong year financially. Watch
P.S. It was also perfect to hear a little voice call
for our annual report in September to see just how good it was!
out from the audience, “Hi Grandma!”
5
Educational Opportunities
O
ne of values at Wesley Willows is Excellence. We
have many different programs to assure we are always
pursuing excellence in all we do. It may include bringing
in special speakers with a wealth of knowledge; it might be
hosting seminars for professionals of all backgrounds such
as human resources professionals, fundraising professionals,
or other professionals on staff. We have partnerships with
Rockford Health Systems (RHS) for monthly educational
sessions on current areas of interest in healthcare. We team
up with Rock Valley College to host a Center for Learning
in Retirement class on the campus, as well as providing the
instructor. Also, we’ve recently partnered with Fairhaven
Christian Retirement Center and RHS to bring the movie
“I’ll Be Me” as an educational forum on Alzheimer’s Disease.
Many of our employees attend classes and seminars off
campus to aid in becoming more proficient in their area of
expertise or practice. Of course, there are also staff that need
to fulfill continuing education to maintain their licensure or
certification. We pay for those classes as it brings added skills
and knowledge to them and their position. In the next year
each of our dining services staff who are involved in food
handling, will need to be certified by the State of Illinois in
sanitation. About 85% of the staff will be engaged in this
training. It means time away from their daily activities and
the expense of the training itself. We are supportive of this
endeavor as it will encourage staff that may have no outside
training to continue their studies;
enhance their skills; and ensure the
About 85%
safety of our residents.
of the staff will
be engaged in
this training.
Along this line, with the recovery
of the economy, it is apparent that
finding qualified applicants to fill
positions is more difficult. With this
knowledge in hand, Wesley Willows
is in the process of developing an
in-house Certified Nurses Aid (CNA) training course. The
course will have two objectives: a) as we train these potential
new staff we will be able to select the cream of the crop AND
b) we will make a contribution to the Rockford community
with additional trained CNAs to help fill positions at other
senior living organizations. We have also decided to change
our tuition reimbursement policy to be more generous for
anyone pursuing an LPN or RN license. This will encourage
current employees to further their education and help them
become more knowledgeable and better equipped to meet the
healthcare needs of our residents today and into the future.
We hope to roll out these programs in late September of
this year and we look forward to our staff becoming more
engaged in furthering their education. Education does make
a difference and Wesley Willows wants to make a difference
in the lives of our employees while benefiting our residents
through training and more education!
6
Where is Glen Now?
O
n June 9th, Wesley Willows, Fairhaven Christian
Retirement Center, and Rockford Health System
invited the community to see the movie “I’ll Be Me”.
The film documents Glen Campbell’s last tour which
followed his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease and serves as
a remarkable tool to bring awareness of the disease.
Our evening at First Free Church began with Bill Pratt,
President & CEO of Wesley Willows sharing facts about
Alzheimer’s Disease. Erica Figurin, Life Enrichment
Director at Wesley Willows, followed singing Glen’s last
song: “I’m not gonna miss you”. Erica later reflected on
how the words to the song brought tears to her eyes as she
was learning it. Following the song, Dr. Shawn Wallery,
a Neurologist at the Brain and Spine Center at Rockford
Health System shared some insights into the disease.
As the movie rolled, our 400+ guests were held captive
by the story, the transparency of the family as they
encountered each new twist of the disease, and of course,
the music. While those of us who have listened to Glen
Campbell for a long time could recognize the changes in
the timbre of his voice over the years, his musical abilities
were still strong and intact. Even as the film showed
the progress of his disease, and some dicey moments on
stage, his vocals and guitar playing continued to be quite
amazing. Listening to the awe in the voices of his fellow
musicians and the admiration they had for his musical
abilities demonstrated the respect he had in the music
community – and why the film was so important and
touched so many of us.
We were thankful to have representatives from the
Alzheimer’s Association join us for the evening. We were
pleased that 400+ people were there to begin, or in some
cases continue, the conversation about Alzheimer’s Disease.
Glen Campbell was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease
in June of 2011 and moved to a Memory Care facility in
Nashville, near his home, in April of 2014. In April of
2015, Glen and his wife and family celebrated his 79th
birthday together – Burgers and Glen’s favorite dessert, ice
cream.
Alzheimer’s Disease can take away so much, but as the
Campbell family demonstrated with such grace, it can also
help us to remember to be grateful for each day. If you
Google “I’m not gonna miss you”, you can listen to Glen’s
last song…Glen may not miss us, but we will miss his
music…and each family dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease
will understand.
IN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
We Deeply Appreciate All Your Generous Gifts Given To Wesley Willows.
April 21, 2015 - July 31, 20155
BEQUESTS
Wayne H. & Ruth Diehl
Charitable Foundation
GOOD SAMARITAN
ENDOWMENT FUND
Ronald G. Armagost
Bill & Fran Pratt
Barbara A. Stauffer
Wesley Willows Auxiliary
Wesley Willows Resident
Community Garden
GOOD SAMARITAN
GIFTS
Anonymous Friends
Gretchen Christiansen
Adams
Ann Arnould
Barber-Colman Alumni
Group
Jane S. Carlson
John Day
Carroll Dietz
Dean & Doris Dion
Richard Drogemuller
Tim & Elizabeth Earleywine
Harlem UMC
Diane Helsel
Margaret Henning
Jewel Hufstedler
Michelle Jaspers
Pat Johnson
Diann Kaufman
Mathew & Betty Keefe
Cari Kettleson
Robert King
Ruth Kinsman
Dennis & Valerie LeFevre
McNeil-McHugh Fund of the
Community Foundation of
Northern Illinois
Sally Medernach
Charles & Mitzie Moffitt
David & Sue Murray
Northern Illinois Conference
of the UMC
Marian O’Brien
Steve & Trina Pearce
Virginia Poust
Robert Pringey
Harriett L. Reid
Barbara Ring
Gordon & Margaret Smith
Donald & Cloette Sturner
Raymond & Ann Sytek
Dorothy Wallheimer
Lynn & Eldora Watson
Wesley Willows Auxiliary
Wesley Willows Life
Enrichment Department
Mary Ann Willard
Shirley Wooden
GIFTS GIVEN IN
HONOR OF
William G. Johnson
William T. Pratt
GIFTS GIVEN TO
HONOR OTHERS
Paul & Lori Burke
Betty L. Hlavka
GIFTS IN MEMORY OF
Mary Black
Richard Blackburn
William G. Boales, Jr.
Mario Bortoli
Betty Breeland
Thomas E. Brown
Robert & Elaine Carr
Martha Coursey
Florence Eichenberger
Marilyn Fisher
Eldor Fyhrlund
G. Clark Galloway
Marguerite Glenny
Esther Hueckstaedt
Vita Ingrassia
LaVada Johnson
Kenneth Kamens
Ruth Kortemeier
Mary Kortendick
William Kramer
Albert Labunski
Britomar Lathrop
Doris Lundin
Edith McCauley
Rosetta McIntosh
Armina Mittendorf
Cathryn Moore
Maxine Mussulman
Joseph Perrecone
Dorothea Roeh
Robert Rosecrance
Jane Schriver
Adah Sorenson
Charles & Dorothy Thomas
Ellen Marie Wahl
Patricia Waters
Mary Lou Weickert
Bernice “Bea” Whitgrove
Naomi Whyte
Evelyn Wiemer
Donald Wilson
MEMORIAL GIFTS
Constance K. Alexander
Thomas & Mary Babler
Linda Barklow
Rachel Baskerville
William & Jody Baty
Gary & Martha Beaumont
Marie Beck
Charlotte Boales
Betty Brown
Lorraine L. Bruns
Paul & Lori Burke
Jean A. Castle
Virginia Cooper
Robert M. Davidson
Mary Anne Doherty
Erboe & Associates CPAs
Neenah Fairbairn
Mary Fryer
Tom & Kay Glenny
Zena Handlon
Ed & Katy Hansen
Betty L. Hlavka
John & Janette Howard
Arthur & Carol Jacobs
Marie Kamens
Wilma R. Kuhlmeyer
Joyce McCullough
Trudy Metzger
Dr. Bertram Nanayakkara
& Dr. Sunil Nanayakkara
& the Post-Mastectomy
“Encore” Group
Karl & Louise Noltemeier
Phillip & Diane Norris
David & Valerie Reuber
Robert & Judith Riseling
Linda Ann Ritts
Bob & Patricia Shaw
Anne Thomas Simone
Anne Sneed
Donald & Cloe Sturner
Susanna Circle of First UMC
of Park Ridge
Raymond & Ann Sytek
Andrea Thomas
Wesley Willows
Wesley Willows Auxiliary
Westminster Presbyterian
Church
Kenneth & Beth Whitford
Delores Wichman
Diana Wiemer
Mary Ann L. Willard
David & Susan Zumdahl
DESIGNATED GIFTS
Anonymous Friends
Ronald G. Armagost
Phyllis Bishop
Charlotte Boales
Marjorie Cook
Brittany Crist
Robert & Georgia Eiss
Barbara Erickson
Lake Summerset Yacht Club
Raghunath G. Mokadam
Charles & Madeline Osadjan
Mary Jane Schubert
Janet Schuldt
Christian & Mary Simonson
Shirley Wooden
UNDESIGNATED GIFTS
Ronald & Rene Worden
IN KIND GIFTS
Joyce Fisher
Rosetta McIntosh Estate
Betty Phillip
DEEPENING OUR
ROOTS…
GOOD SAMARITAN
ENDOWMENT
GIFTS & PLEDGES
Debra Adkins
Bill & Fran Pratt
Paul & Sheryl Thogerson
Mark & Carla Ticknor
Wesley Willows Auxiliary
BUILDING A PROMISE…
TOWN CENTER GIFTS &
PLEDGES
Nancy J. Kemp
2015 ANNUAL BENEFIT - MARY POPPINS
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Wells Fargo
University of Illinois College
of Medicine at Rockford
GOLD SPONSORS
GOLD BENEFACTORS
Morrison Community Living
Scandroli Construction
SILVER SPONSORS
Alpine Trust & Investment
Group
Puckett’s Flooring
Rockford Health System
BRONZE SPONSOR
Williams-Manny Insurance
Group
UNDERWRITERS
DQ Grill & Chill
Fitzgerald Funeral Home &
Crematory LTD.
Focus Financial Advisors,
Inc.
Guler Appliance Co.
Matt Humpal at RE/MAX
Property Source
Maney’s Lawnscape, Inc.
Mechanical, Inc.
Medline
Meridian
Rockford Bank & Trust
WilliamsMcCarthy LLP
GOOD SAMARITANS
Barbara Erickson
Jack & Mary Kasper
Noelker and Hull
Associates, Inc.
Advanced Window Systems,
Inc.
Alliance Rehab, Inc.
Benson Stone Co.
Joe & Dawn Clinton
Michael W. & Patricia M.
Davis
Theodore & Virginia
Gapinski
Sue & Ken Groff
Ward & Judy Haselhorst
James & Jo Hellmich
Jacquelyn Hess
McGladrey LLP
Roberta Mink
Bill & Fran Pratt
Mary Jane Schubert
John & Kathy Shockey
Tom & Betsy Studley
Neil Webster
Zentz and Associates, Inc.
SILVER BENEFACTORS
Debra Adkins
Jack & Marilyn Axford
Balsley Printing
Charlotte Boales
Betty Brown
Lorraine Bruns
Donald & Mary Freedlund
Tom & Darlene Furst
Bob & Anne Hammes
Marie Kamens
Jean Killingsworth
Joyce Lantz
Richard Leighton
Mark & Marilyn
McClenathan
Rex & Jean Moore
Gerald & Diana Ogren
Jack Packard
Carole Perrin
Rockford Orthopedic
Assoc. LTD
Rosecrance Health Network
David & Kimberly Schmitt
Dr. & Mrs. Milton G. Schmitt
Mary Ann Schou
Richard & Judy Schultz
Don & Justine Walhout
Don & Dee Williams
Fred & Susie Wilson
PATRONS
Alice Alfredson
All Seasons Carpet
Cleaning
Robert & Sharon Ash
Michka & Janna Bailey
Carol Bennehoff
R. Duncan Brown
Jean A. Castle
Dean & Jean Condell
Alfred & Susan Cowan
Kay Cull
Richard & Marge Cyrier
Bill & Shirley Dickson
Rodney & Phyllis Dillinger
Dean & Doris Dion
Dorothy Erwin
Doug & Betty Fisher
Gregory & Laurel Franchini
Kay Galloway
Norma Gesell
James & Helen Gibbons
Tom & Kay Glenny
Joyce Hart
Claude & Karen Ingrassia
Alice Johnson
Stuart & Evelyn Johnson
Claire & Margot Kelley
Daniel & Joanne Kelly
Robert King
John & Sally Koepsell
Sarah Lewis
Olyva Liddell
Eric & Andrea Luke
Janet Mace
David & Jean Moyer
Mrs. George Muck
David & Susan Murray
June Neuman
Dr. Allen & Kay Pang
Bob & Arlene Persinger
Kraig & Patricia Pierceson
Wilma Reinke
Norman & Alice Rice
Elmer Rudy
Barbara Runestad
Pat Sample
David & Margaret
Sanderson
Robert Sieker
Anne Thomas Simone
Christian & Mary Simonson
Harry & Marjorie Smith
James & Ivonne Spelman
Paul & Sheryl Thogerson
Mark & Carla Ticknor
Gary & Ann Turner
Doral & Judy Watts
Gerald & Pat Weber
Kenneth & Beth Whitford
James & Lynn Wood
SPECIAL FRIENDS
Rudy & Lyn Allison
Jane Bailey
Jean Beal
Jack & Janna Becherer
Dorothy Benning
Alan Bloomfield
Robert & Karen Brown
Paul & Lori Burke
Mary Caskey
Virginia Cooper
Edgar & Lori Diaz
Robert & Georgia Eiss
Ted & Rosemary Faber
Thomas & Carol Harman
Nancy Hatten
Ann Haub
Elena Herbert
Betty L. Hlavka
Henry & Beverly Hollar
Barbara Horn
Information Controls, Inc.
Ronald & Kathryn Johnson
Vernon L. Johnson
Susan Kasten
Dolores Kruse
Mary Lou Lafler
James & Iris Laird
Norma B. Larson
Ken & Marge Lemmel
Jean Liegel
Judy Mehren
Dora Meredith
Trudy Metzger
Margaret Moline
David Mueller
Max & Carol Newport
Doris Oncken
Carol Pratt
Robert & Miriam Richardson
Gloria Silberman
Sue Stajdohar & Fritz
Deichstetter
Barbara A. Stauffer
Marshall & Diana Strauss
Diane Steva
Raymond & Ann Sytek
Jeanette Unger
Dixie Vance
Kathleen Walker
Janet Wax
William & Karen Welch
Marilyn Workman
IN-KIND GIFTS
Alpine Bank
Discovery Center Museum
DQ Grill & Chill
Lloyd’s Chicago
Maney’s Lawnscape, Inc.
Meijer
Meridian
Midway Village Museum
Sisters Thai Café
sugarjones, inc
Summerfield Zoo
Tavern on Clark
Tinker Swiss Cottage
Museum & Gardens
7
SUMMER 2015
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
ROCKFORD, IL
PERMIT NO. 3899
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Bill Pratt
President/CEO
Michael C. Gann
Chairman of the Board
4141 North Rockton Avenue
Rockford, IL 61103
Board of Trustees
Erin Maggio Calkins
Linda F. Chang
Joe Clinton
Michael W. Davis
Lori Diaz
Michael C. Gann
Monica B. Glenny
Anne Hammes
Doug Lamb
Mark McClenathan
Bill Pratt
David M. Schmitt
John Shockey
(815) 316-1500
www.wesleywillows.org
PHASE III - Providing an Exceptional Lifestlye for Seniors
I
f you have not been to Wesley Willows recently,
now is a great time to visit! You will see the
140 new Willow Ridge Homes that have been
constructed since 2003 and the work on four more.
The 2008 addition of our Town Center and Willows
Suites was complemented by Willows Suites Phase
II in 2012. And you will see this year’s project:
Willows Suites Phase III and the addition to our
Town Center -- all to help us provide exceptional
amenities that will allow for our current programs
and services as well as development of new ones,
long into the future.
Willows Suites Phase III includes 36 residences in
a variety of floorplans ranging from 794 square feet
to 1342 square feet. Included in each are spacious
living and dining areas, full kitchens, large balconies
or patios and master bedrooms with walk-in closets. One floor plan even has two separate bedroom
suites, appealing to many of the future residents
that have decided to make this their new home.
As for the Town Center, this marvelous building is
already home to a Bistro, Alpine Bank branch, a
full service salon, a media center, a state-of the art
fitness center and an aquatic center. The addition includes a dedicated fitness classroom, an upscale dining space, private club room
and more meeting rooms and community space to meet the evergrowing needs or our resident-driven-programs.
We’ve already seen the first of the Phase III residents move to
the campus. As always, when a person sells their home in the
community before their new home on the campus is ready, we
accommodate them with an alternate place to live as we complete
their new home. And then, to make the transition seamless, we take
care of the second move. We have used this approach for nearly as
long as we have been building out the west campus.
We know that making a move can be difficult and in our desire to
remove the stress, we created our Smart Move program. Those who
choose to move to Wesley Willows – no matter where on the campus
– can use this program including a professional organizer to help you
get started, a real estate program to help you sell your home with no
hassles and a professional mover to make your move pain free.
Adding these accommodations and programs is one way to live
out our vision: to be the leader in providing exceptional programs,
services and amenities for seniors. We encourage you to come visit,
bring friends and experience this vision as it continues to become a
reality for over 650 residents.
TO SCHEDULE A TOUR OF WESLEY WILLOWS AND OUR NEWWEST ADDITIONS CALL: (815) 316-1500